Description
Mid-15th Century Abstract Chess Set Reproduction
Offered here is a small size reproduction of a rather famous Mid-15th Century Abstract Chess Set excavated in Russia, which is one of the earliest known examples of a turned set of chessmen. The tallest piece stands 1-1/2” tall with a 1-0″ diameter base. The chess pieces are turned from boxwood and rosewood and bear a resemblance in miniature to the famous set designed by Italian turner and carver Baldassarre Embriachi and illustrated in The Art of Chess by Colleen Schafroth. The most striking features of this set are the Rooks. The bishops have a rather stout appearance, much like the Staunton Rook, but the single groove in the head represents a Biship’s miter. Rooks would have at least four distinct crenellations. The flexible, lined chessboard shown here is included. An additional selection of suitable chessboards is available elsewhere on this site. The chess set is late 20th Century.
Many theories have been brought forward as to the origin of elaborate Rook design or what it represents. The particular Rook design has been associated with the Mythical Phoenix. Many different theories have been brought forward on the genesis of this design. The rather abstract, nonfigurative design resembles, in many ways, Islamic chess pieces. This style of chessmen probably pre-dates the advent of the modern game of chess. It was referred to as the New Chess, as well as Chess of the Mad Queen. With the enhances powers of the Queen and Bishop, the game gained in popularity and the new game spread like wildfire throughout Europe. Within one generation the game which had endured centuries and had covered half of the known world was eclipsed in most of Europe by the new game. The old game became a relic, an anachronism remembered by monks and academics — those who clung to the old chess literature which was suddenly obsolete.
